MEPs backing Britain, not Cameron, in support for deal

Responding to David Cameron’s visit to the European Parliament today, Glenis Willmott MEP, Labour’s Leader in the European Parliament, said:

“David Cameron’s long history of burning bridges means that a personal visit will probably have little impact on the way the European Parliament will view the proposals.

“There is support to reach a deal on these issues because colleagues in the European Parliament want Britain to remain in the European Union. This support has nothing to do with his flying visit to Brussels – the key point for MEPs is that Britain is better off in the EU, and the EU is better off with Britain in it.

“Many colleagues in the parliament were concerned the Tories would use this as an excuse to attack workers’ rights, but because of the work of Labour MEPs and trade unions, they haven’t been able to undermine major employment rights like a minimum four weeks’ paid holiday, a right to parental leave, and the same protection for part-time workers as full-time workers.

“When it comes down to it, this referendum will not be about David Cameron, or the detail of whatever deal is achieved, it will be about the lives and futures of millions of working people who would be affected if we leave the EU.

“In terms of jobs, security and rights, Britain and Britons are better off in the EU, and that is why we will be campaigning to remain.”